CURO Construction Skills Programme


The CURO Construction Skills Programme gives young people a hands-on introduction to the construction industry through real-world projects in partnership with CURO, Bath’s local housing association. 

This experience is delivered in blocks of 6 weeks and designed for students who learn best by doing. It builds confidence, practical ability and employability skills in a safe, structured and supportive environment. 

Our goal is to help students see that the construction industry isn’t just about tools - it’s about teamwork, responsibility and pride in creating something that matters. 

Who it’s for:

  • 14–16-year-old students referred through schools or the Local Authority 
  • Young people who would benefit from a practical, real-world learning experience 
  • Those considering a future in construction, trades, or property maintenance 
Structure:

  • Duration: 6 weeks 
  • Frequency: 1 day per week (2.5 hours) 
  • Location: CURO construction site or workshop, Bath area 
  • Delivery: Jointly led by Bath Rugby Foundation staff and CURO trade mentors 
Programme overview:
 
Week Focus 
Skills Developed 
1 
Health & Safety, Site Awareness 
Understanding tools, PPE, workplace expectations 
2 
Teamwork in Construction 
Communication, collaboration, role responsibility 
3 
Measuring & Making 
Basic trade skills - measuring, cutting, joining 
4 
Problem Solving on Site 
Planning, sequencing, responding to real-time challenges 
5 
Building for a Purpose 
Applying learning to a group project 
6 
Sustainability & Careers 
Green construction, next steps, reflection and celebration 
What students gain:

  • Hands-on construction experience on real CURO projects
  • Increased confidence, teamwork and communication skills
  • Understanding of workplace expectations and employability behaviours
  • A record of achievement from Bath Rugby Foundation and CURO
  • Clear pathways to college courses, apprenticeships or work experience
Our approach: high support, low consequence:

  • We believe young people thrive when they feel safe, respected and supported. 
    Our approach combines clear structure with relational teaching: 
  • High levels of support from staff who understand complex needs
  • Consistent expectations and restorative practice when challenges arise
  • A focus on learning through doing, not punishment for mistakes 
Safeguarding & risk management:

Our programme has been designed and co-ordinated by Curo’s head of construction and site safety.  All CURO sites and activities are fully risk-assessed and supervised by experienced staff. 

How schools benefit:

  • Measurable improvements in attendance and engagement
  • Clear communication and progress updates
  • Contribution to Gatsby Benchmarks for careers education
  • Evidence of real-world learning for Ofsted and LA reviews 
Cost:

For students currently enrolled at our Alternative Learning Hub, participation in Work Experience Wednesdays is included within their existing programme fees.
For external schools wishing to refer students to take part in Work Experience Wednesdays, the cost is £150 per student, per day.
Referrals:
To refer a student, or your child, or to find out more, email our Alternative Learning Hub Manager, Jonno Wood, [email protected]
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